Musings on Heddon Lures
August 7th 2008 00:24
James Heddon was a beekeeper, politician, and newspaper publisher in the late 1800s who launched what became one of the leading lure companies in American history.
I wonder how many anglers have this Heddon lure!
Legend has it that Heddon was waiting for a fishing partner one afternoon and tossed a whittled "plug" of wood into the water and was startled when a fish struck. The Heddon Company was founded in 1902 with wooden lures that were produced in Heddon's own kitchen and by the end of the decade the company had distributors all over the United States and even Canada.
Sadly, Heddon died in 1911 but his sons, Charles and Will, built the company into an empire that became known to anglers all over the world until the Heddon Company was sold in 1955. Since that time, the company has been sold many more times and under the control of various leadership.
Company organization and corporate heads may change but one thing that has never changed over the years is the quality designed into every Heddon lure. A lure in your tackle box may also be one used by your grandfather! That's not to say that Heddon lures are not subject to change but part of Heddon's success has to be knowing when to stick with a good design. Another testament to their quality would be the fact that, in their heyday, Heddon even produced lures for other companies .
Today Heddon lures are some of the most sought after items on the market for both the collector and recreational angler. While older Heddon lures are sought by collectors, both rods and reels bearing the Heddon name command top dollar.
Sadly, Heddon died in 1911 but his sons, Charles and Will, built the company into an empire that became known to anglers all over the world until the Heddon Company was sold in 1955. Since that time, the company has been sold many more times and under the control of various leadership.
Company organization and corporate heads may change but one thing that has never changed over the years is the quality designed into every Heddon lure. A lure in your tackle box may also be one used by your grandfather! That's not to say that Heddon lures are not subject to change but part of Heddon's success has to be knowing when to stick with a good design. Another testament to their quality would be the fact that, in their heyday, Heddon even produced lures for other companies .
Today Heddon lures are some of the most sought after items on the market for both the collector and recreational angler. While older Heddon lures are sought by collectors, both rods and reels bearing the Heddon name command top dollar.
Until next time--watch yourself and watch your line!
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